Outemu Crystal vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Honey. The Crystal switch offers a unique and satisfying linear typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight. Not only does it provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, but it also boasts a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Honey switch is known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a different kind of typing experience. With a deep and pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch offers a tactile and satisfying typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Honey keyboards feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, giving them similar sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for more vibrant and visually appealing effects.
While both keyboards share the same polycarbonate material for their top and bottom housings, there may still be slight differences in their sound profiles. This is because the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the Crystal or the Honey keyboard, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience. However, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall auditory experience of the keyboard.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Honey keyboards offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Both keyboards benefit from the stiffer and more resonant nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing adds visual appeal when using RGB lighting. While there may be slight differences in sound due to the distribution of housing materials in each switch, both keyboards provide a satisfying auditory experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Crystal requires 45 grams of force, while the Honey requires slightly less at 42 grams. Both switches can be classified as relatively light in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Crystal has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to Honey's 50 grams. This indicates that the Crystal offers a slightly more substantial typing experience when it comes to bottoming out.
In considering weight, it is worth noting that some users prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. For this reason, the Honey switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be favored by individuals seeking an extended typing experience. On the other hand, there are users who prefer switches with heavier forces for a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Crystal switch with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces might be the preferred choice.
To summarize, the actuation force of the Crystal is slightly heavier than that of the Honey, while the bottom out force of the Crystal is also slightly heavier. This means that the Crystal will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience overall. However, if lighter switches are preferred for longer typing sessions, the Honey switch would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer different options to cater to the preferences of users, ensuring that they can find the ideal typing experience they desire.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch is 3.8 mm. These distances are quite similar, and both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance. The 4.0 mm distance is more commonly seen, providing a traditional and familiar feel. On the other hand, the 3.8 mm distance of the Honey switch is slightly shallower, which can be advantageous for gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you value quick and responsive key presses, the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch would be a better choice. However, for individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress, the slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm in the Crystal switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that you can expect a balanced and unobtrusive sound while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch provides a deep and pleasant sound profile. This suggests that the Honey switch produces a more resonant and satisfying sound when pressed. If you prefer a more subtle sound, the Crystal switch would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a richer and more pronounced sound, the Honey switch would be more suitable.
Moving on to feel, the Crystal switch offers a fairly elastic typing experience with a medium-light weight. This unique combination of properties results in a linear typing feel that is both comfortable and responsive. The switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. The Honey switch, on the other hand, offers a smooth and creamy typing experience. This can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. With the Honey switch, you can expect a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the Honey switch is also described as frictionless, implying an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches provide a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In summary, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique and linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Its relatively elastic feel and medium-light weight make it a comfortable choice for typing. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. If you prefer a more subtle and balanced sound, the Crystal switch would be ideal. However, if you enjoy a richer and more pronounced sound, the Honey switch offers a satisfying option. In terms of feel, both switches provide a polished and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and TTC Honey switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switches are a great choice. These switches have a fairly elastic feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, they have a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Honey linear switches are a fantastic option. These switches offer a deep and pleasant sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more subdued typing sound. Moreover, the Honey switches provide a frictionless and buttery typing sensation, allowing for effortless and seamless keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and TTC Honey switches depends on your preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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